Method and means for textile manufacture

ABSTRACT

A method and means for simultaneously inserting weft/binding yarns ( 45 ) and their beating-up, in textile manufacturing processes like 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing, is disclosed. A yarn carrier ( 90; 39; 22 ) is equipped with a beating-up reed dent ( 27; 28 ). In carrier ( 90 ), which comprises a cartridge-like yarn supplying means ( 1   x ), the yarn ( 45 ) is arranged around two axes of rotation (X 1  and X 2 ) and it is enclosed in a case. It is particularly suitable for 3D textile-forming processes like 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing because of its relatively low-height but high-width and hence the possibility of carrying relatively large amount of yarn. The yarn ( 45 ) is contained on a flanged belt ( 15 ) that can be driven either from within or from outside of the means ( 1   x ). Such a cartridge-like yam supplying means ( 1   x ) is equipped with tips ( 18   a,    18   b ) that are offset or displaced oppositely about the central axis. Such a displaced arrangement of the tips directs the carriers ( 90; 22 ) to lay yarn ( 45 ) in two different paths, relative to a layer of warp/axial yarns, while traversing back and forth in the same linear path. Through such a method the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes can be made efficient. The yarn supplying means ( 1   x ) could also be useful in other textile processes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention pertains in general to the field of textilemanufacture. In particular, it concerns a method and means for supplyingweft/binding yarn and beating-up. Such a means comprises a yarn carrierwith a reed dent and is especially advantageous for processes like3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing wherein multiple weft/binding yarns arerequired to be laid horizontally and vertically between the multiplelayer warp/axial yarns and beaten-up. By employing such a means, thelaying of weft/binding yarns and their beating-up can be achievedsimultaneously, and hence the processes rendered efficient. To keep thetextile-forming device compact, the yarn carrier is made relativelythinner and wider by arranging the yarn about two axes of rotation. Todirect the yarn carrier back and forth in a linear path and yet be ableto lay the weft/binding yarn in two different paths relative to a layerof the warp/axial yarns, the yarn carrier is provided with offset tips.Such a yarn carrier could also be useful in other textile processes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Different types of yarn packages are required for supplying yarnssuch as bobbins, pirns, cones, cheeses and spools. However, all thesepackages have one thing in common. The yarn always occurs about one axisof rotation. As a consequence, these packages of yarn happen to becylindrical/conical and hence their thickness and width are equal whenseen axially. However, depending on the functional requirement of agiven process, either small or big diameter packages of yarn withsuitable height/length are used. For example, a pirn that is used as aweft source in the weaving process is required to be diametricallysmaller than the cone/cheese.

[0003] Unlike in the conventional 2D weaving process wherein onehorizontal weft is picked, in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial type ofnoobing processes, which have been discussed in detail according to thelisted references, multiple horizontal and vertical wefts/binding yarnshave to be inserted alternately through the warp/axial yarns. This isbecause the warp/axial yarns are disposed in rows and columnsarrangement and every row and column of yarns requires a correspondingweft/binding yarn. As in these 3D textile-forming processes the use ofmultiple weft/binding yarn transporting carriers or shuttles ispreferable, it becomes necessary to keep the height of each yarn carrieras low as possible to enable simultaneous traversal of as many of themas possible in the limited space that is available to keep thingsmanageable, simple and compact.

[0004] Further, in these 3D textile-forming processes it is desirable tomaintain the vertical and horizontal layers of warp/axial yarns asclosely as possible. Large spacing between the warp/axial yarns isdisadvantageous. For example, it causes generation of high tensions inwarp/axial yarns, renders a device bulky and hence not space saving, andis not helpful in achieving dense and well-structured 3D textile. Also,a close spacing of warp/axial yarns is desirable to manage easily thesimultaneous insertion of a large number of either vertical orhorizontal wefts/binding yarns. However, the conventional cylindricalpackage like the pirn is diametrically too large to be used in the said3D textile forming processes. A pirn with its carrier, namely theshuttle, becomes even a larger system and will be obviously notpreferable. This is also applicable to the type of shuttles and theiryarn packages used in narrow or band weaving. If relatively smallerdiameter pirns and shuttles are used (to have a low-height) then thecylindrical package will carry lesser amount of yarn. A package withrelatively lower amounts of yarn will exhaust quickly necessitatingfrequent replacement with newer yarn packages. Consequently, a processrequiring frequent stoppages for replacing exhausted yarn package with afresh one will apparently be inefficient. The other disadvantages withthe use of conventional yarn packages like the pirn are:

[0005] It cannot let off and take-up the weft yarn by itself to maintainuniform tension.

[0006] A twist is inserted in every round of yarn that is withdrawnaxially.

[0007] It is vulnerable to contamination and damage.

[0008] These disadvantages are common for most prior art textilemanufacturing methods and machinery, and especially for yarn holdersbeing used therein.

[0009] As insertion of multiple wefts/binding yarns are involved in theprocesses under consideration, it is desirable to traverse the multiplemeans for yarn insertion in a linear path and under positive control tomanage them properly. This will help to keep the textile producingmachine compact and simple with as few working parts as possible.However, for these processes the conventional shuttle, including thetypes used in narrow/band weaving, which has its tips arranged in alinear alignment, is not suitable. This is because their back and forthtraversal will have to be done in a rectangular path, and not the samelinear path, to lay yarn either above/below or right side/left side of agiven warp/axial yarn layer. As a result, the use of such a shuttlewould necessitate wider spacing between the warp/axial yarns andconsequently a compact, simple and efficient machine cannot be had.Also, it will be nearly impossible to control the multiple shuttles of agiven direction if picked simultaneously between the boxes. Accordingly,it will be desirable to traverse the means for yarn insertion underpositive control and in a linear path and yet be able to lay the yarneither above/below or right side/left side of a warp/axial yarn layerfor rendering the machine simple and the process efficient.

[0010] Another major problem confronting the 3D-weaving and uniaxialtype noobing processes is that of beating-up the multiple wefts/bindingyarns that are alternately laid vertically and horizontally through thecolumns and rows of the warp/axial yarns. The beating-up reed andoperation employed in the conventional 2D weaving process, including thetypes used in narrow/band weaving, cannot be applied to the3D-weaving/uniaxial noobing processes. This is because the conventionalbeating-up reed is effective in positioning one ‘horizontal’ weft as itsdents occur in a perpendicular orientation to the weft and a linecontact is sufficient between the dents of the reed and the weft duringthe beating-up operation. The conventional reed with vertically orienteddents will not be effective in beating-up the wefts/binding yarns thatalso occur in the vertical direction as these yarns will tend to slipthrough the space between the dents.

[0011] Further, because in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processesmultiple wefts/binding yarns are inserted alternately in the verticaland horizontal directions, these yarns are required to be beaten-upsimultaneously in their respective directions to render the processefficient. Unlike in the conventional 2D-weaving process wherein onlyone weft is laid in the horizontal direction and the reed can make aline contact to beat it, in the 3D-weaving/uniaxial noobing processesthe beating-up dents would be required to make a planar or areal contactas there will be more than one weft/binding yarns in a given directionto be beaten-up at the same time.

[0012] It follows now that the main reasons why the conventionalshuttle, including the type used in narrow/band weaving, is unsuitablefor use in the context of the 3D textile-forming processes are:

[0013] It is difficult to control the shuttle, in order to lay the yarnin two different paths relative to a layer of warp/axial yarns duringits linear back and forth traversal, as its tips occur in a lineararrangement.

[0014] It is not traversed under positive control as it is thrown andthere is no control over it during its flight from one box to theopposite.

[0015] It cannot be employed in the beating-up operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] It is therefore an objective of the present invention to providea method and an apparatus to at least partly overcome theabove-mentioned problems associated with the prior art.

[0017] This objective is achieved with the invention as defined in thelisted claims.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention a method formanufacturing a textile is provided, wherein at least one yarn insertionmeans (90; 39; 22) is operated for laying the yarn (45) through thewarp/axial yarns (25), characterized in that the said yarn insertionmeans is also employable to perform a beating-up operation. Importantadvantages through this aspect will be that the textile manufacturingprocesses concerned will become efficient, textile manufacturing will bespeeded-up, the textile machine will require relatively fewer workingparts and the cost of the machine and its maintenance will be reduced.

[0019] According to the second aspect of the invention a yarn carrierfor use in manufacturing a textile is provided, characterized in thatthe carrier (90) comprises a yarn carrying belt (15) on which yarn (45)is arranged, said belt (15) being turnable relative to the carrier (90)about at least two axes of rotation (X1 and X2). Important advantagesthrough this aspect will be the availability of a yarn carrier havingrelatively low height and high width to be able to store sufficientlylarge amount of yarn, and the textile machine will not be bulky butbecome compact. Further, the yarn could be encased and thereby the riskof damaging and contaminating it will be reduced, and the warp/axialyarns will be spaced apart relatively closely with reduced tensionbuild-up.

[0020] According to the third aspect of the invention a yarn carrier(90; 22) for use in textile production is provided, wherein it istraversed back and forth through layers of warp/axial yarns (25) toplace the yarn (45) there between, said carrier (90; 22) comprisingrotatable yarn holder on which the yarn (45) is arranged in a way toenable either the yarn's (45) removal from the carrier or winding itinto the carrier, wherein the carrier (90; 22) is elongated in thedirection of its traversal, and both end portions of the carrier in thesaid direction of traversal being tapered, characterized in that thetapered end portions are ended in tips (18 a, 18 b) occurring oppositelydisplaced to each other relative to the traversal direction of thecarrier to render the carrier (90; 22) self-guiding to lay the yarn (45)in two different paths relative to a layer of warp/axial yarn (25) whilethe carrier (90; 22) traverses back and forth. Important advantagesthrough this aspect will be that the process will be rendered efficient,relatively fewer working parts will be required in machine and theworking of the machine will be relatively simplified.

[0021] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a yarn insertionmeans such as a yarn carrier (90; 22) or a rapier system (39) isprovided for use in textile production, wherein it is traversed back andforth through layers of warp/axial yarns (25) to place the yarn (45)there between, characterized in that it further comprises beating-upreed dent (27; 28) extending in the direction towards the fabric-fell(29) when the insertion means is traversed and comprising at least oneinclined portion (27 b; 28 b) adjacent to its farthest extended part (27c; 28 c). Important advantages through this aspect will be that the yarnlaying and beating-up operation can be carried out in one step, theprocess will be rendered efficient, textile production will bespeeded-up, relatively fewer working parts will be required in amachine.

[0022] As can be inferred now, it will be desirable to have a yarnpackage that has relatively low height, but is still able to storesufficiently large amount of yarn. To have a package of low height, theyarn should be made to occur about two parallel axes of rotation so thatthe yarn is disposed about the space separating the two axes. This way,for a given distance between the two parallel axes, a package of eitherrelatively lower height and greater width or lower width and greaterheight can be produced. Further, the yarn of specified arrangement canalso be encased. A cartridge-like yarn supply source as this can beadvantageous in situations and for reasons just stated.

[0023] As the constructional design of the conventional shuttle has itstips arranged in a linear alignment, its use in the 3D-weaving anduniaxial noobing processes becomes unsuitable. This is because they haveto be traversed in a rectangular path to lay the yarn either above/belowor left/right side of a horizontal or vertical warp layer respectively.Such traversal of the multiple shuttles will be undesirable for reasonsmentioned earlier. This problem can be overcome by having the tips ofthe present carrier arranged oppositely displaced about the longitudinalaxis of the yarn carrier. By incorporating such guiding tips or nosesthe carrier can be rendered self-guiding as it can be directed in thesame linear path and yet lay the yarn in two different paths. Further,the traversal and control of the carrier also stand to be simplified.

[0024] As in these textile forming processes the two sets ofweft/binding yarn carriers are required to be moved alternately in amutually perpendicular direction, the processes under considerationoffer the unique possibility to make use of one set of weft/binding yarncarriers to beat-up the wefts/binding yarns of the other set that havebeen laid previously. Such a beating-up can be achieved if either all orselect cartridge-like yarn carriers can be equipped with a certainbeating-up dent. The beating-up operation so carried out will be of aninnovative non-reciprocatory type. Through such an approach the pickingand beating-up operations can be carried out in one step and therebyuniquely render the 3D textile-forming processes efficient.

[0025] On the basis of above discussions the present inventionpreferably provides one or several of the following features, andpreferably all of them in combination:

[0026] A cartridge-type means for yarn supply and transport beingprovided with a dent so that the beating-up operation can be carriedout,

[0027] The method in which the picking and beating-up operations arecarried out simultaneously,

[0028] A means for supplying yarn in which the yarn occurs about twoparallel axes of rotation,

[0029] A means for yarn supply that lets off and takes-up yarn underpositive action,

[0030] A means for yarn supply that does not introduce a twist in theyarn that is being withdrawn out,

[0031] A cartridge-type means for yarn supply in which the yarn isencased and the risks of contaminating and damaging it are minimised,

[0032] The cartridge-like means for yarn supply being suitable fortransporting the contained yarn,

[0033] The cartridge-like yarn supplier being provided as a self-guidingcarrier that can lay the yarn in two different paths in its linear backand forth traversal, and

[0034] To make the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes efficient.

[0035] Other objectives and advantageous features of the invention aredisclosed in the dependent claims and in the description of thepreferred embodiments given below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] For exemplifying purposes, the invention will be described incloser detail in the following with reference to embodiments thereofillustrated in the attached drawings, wherein:

[0037]FIG. 1 shows the constructional features of the two halves of thecartridge case.

[0038]FIG. 2 shows the assembled cartridge case.

[0039]FIGS. 3a, b, c and d show the features of a wheel, a bearing,their assembly and their relative arrangement in the cartridge.

[0040]FIGS. 4a and b show the constructional features of a flanged beltand its mounting on wheels.

[0041]FIG. 5 shows the relative arrangement of the flanged belt with thewheels and cartridge.

[0042]FIGS. 6a, b and c show the constructional features of the guidingnose as viewed from front, its three-dimensional view and its locationin relation to the cartridge.

[0043]FIGS. 7a-7 j show the sequence of traversal of the self-guidingyarn carrier in a cycle of the 3D-weaving process.

[0044]FIGS. 8a-8 i show the sequence of traversal of the self-guidingyarn carrier in a cycle of the uniaxial noobing process.

[0045]FIGS. 9a and b show the inside top views of the self-guiding yarncarrier with the protruding wheel for turning it from outside and withan installed motor for turning the wheel from within.

[0046]FIGS. 10a, b, c and d show the possibilities of using the guidingnose with yarn spools that have one axis of rotation, wherein therotational axis of the spool may occur either perpendicular or parallelto the axis of the guiding nose and the spool carrier may carry one ormore than one such spools besides the possibility of the guiding noseitself functioning as a carrier of spool.

[0047]FIGS. 11a, b and c show the basic form of a beating-up dent thatcan be attached to the cartridge-like yarn carrier, the dent attached tothe carrier, and another variant of the dent.

[0048]FIG. 12 shows an assembly of the cartridge-like yarn carrier, theguiding nose and the beating-up dent.

[0049]FIGS. 13a and b-f show the relative arrangement of variouselements in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes and thesimultaneous laying of yarn and non-reciprocatory beating-up operationas viewed from top.

[0050]FIGS. 14a and b-f show the relative arrangement of variouselements in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes and thesimultaneous laying of yarn and non-reciprocatory beating-up operationas viewed from the side.

[0051]FIGS. 15a and b show the attachment of a beating-up reed dent tothe rapier head and a spool carrier to achieve simultaneous laying ofyarn and beating-up operation.

[0052]FIG. 16 shows an alternative construction of the yarn supplysource having three parallel axes of rotation, to be used in analternative application.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0053] The essential details of the cartridge-like means for supplyingyarn and its employment as a yarn carrier and in the beating-upoperation according to the present invention will be described now inreference to the FIGS. 1-15.

[0054]FIG. 1 shows the split views of the cartridge case (1) that willcontain the supply yarn. The constructional details of the top (1 a) andbottom (1 d) halves of the case (1) have been indicated. Both the halves(1 a and 1 d) are identical in construction. Accordingly the variousdetails are explained jointly. The top (1 a) and bottom (1 d) parts ofthe cartridge case (1) have front (1 c and 1 f) and back (1 b and 1 e)walls. The back wall (1 b) is not shown in the view of the case (1 a) inFIG. 1 but it exists just as the indicated back wall (1 e) of the bottomhalf (1 d). The back walls (1 b and 1 e) are longer than the front walls(1 c and 1 f). The top half (1 a) has a pair of ring-like circularopenings (2 a and 2 b) and similarly the bottom half (1 d) has the pairof ring-like circular openings (2 c and 2 d). There is also alongitudinal opening (3 a and 3 b) on top and bottom halvesrespectively. Each of these longitudinal openings (3 a and 3 b) has apair of back (4 a and 4 c) and front (4 b and 4 d) walls respectively.The front wall (4 b) is not shown in the view of the case (1 a) in FIG.1 but it exists just as the indicated front wall (4 d) of the bottomhalf (1 d).

[0055] At the end sides of each of the walls (4 a-4 d) an opening (5 a-5h) is provided as shown (openings (5 c and 5 d) are not shown but issimilar to openings (5 g and 5 h)). Each of these openings (5 a-5 h) islevel with the inner surface of the corresponding case parts (1 a and 1d). Similarly, there are openings (6 a and 6 b) on the back wall (1 b)of the case (1 a), which however are not visible in the shown view ofFIG. 1. This pair of openings (6 a and 6 b) exists just like the pair ofopenings (6 c and 6 d) in the wall (1 e) of bottom case (1 d) shown inFIG. 1. Each of these openings (6 a-6 d) has one of its long sides levelwith the inner surface of the corresponding case parts (1 a and 1 d) asindicated in FIG. 1. Each of the openings (6 a-6 d) occur equally aboutthe diameters of the ring-like openings (2 a-2 d) respectively. Althoughonly the openings (5 e-5 h and 6 c-6 d) of the bottom case (1 d) will beutilised to accommodate a wheel to be described, similar openings (5 a-5d and 6 a-6 b) on the top case (1 a) is provided to allow easyinterchange of the two case parts (1 a and 1 d). Such aninterchangeability of parts can be advantageous in its manufacture andreplacement.

[0056] An opening (7 a and 7 b) is provided at the front walls (1 c and1 f) of the cases (1 a and 1 d) respectively as shown in FIG. 1. Theseopenings (7 a and 7 b) occur midway and at the open side of thecorresponding walls (1 c and 1 f). The purpose of these openings (7 aand 7 b) is to receive a suitable yarn guide through which the yarnwould pass either into or out of the cartridge (1). Such an openingcould also be provided at another suitable location depending on how andwhere the cartridge is to be employed. The yarn guide is not indicated.

[0057] The longitudinal opening (3 a) and the pair of circular openings(2 a and 2 b) of the case (1 a) occur symmetrically about the indicatedaxis (8 a). Similarly, the longitudinal opening (3 b) and the pair ofcircular openings (2 c and 2 d) of case (1 d) occur symmetrically aboutthe indicated axis (8 b).

[0058] The ends at the sides of each of the case parts (1 a and 1 d) aretapered in two senses as shown in FIG. 1. The first taper that occurs isin the cases (1 a and 1 d) width direction because the back walls (1 b/1e) are longer than the front walls (1 c/1 f). The second taper (9 a-9 d)is in the thickness direction of the case (1 a and 1 d) as indicated inFIG. 1. These two tapers are provided to aid easy entry of the cartridge(1) between the closely spaced warp/axial yarns and thus render thecartridge (1) suitable for transporting yarn. The two halves (1 a and 1d) when joined together will result in a cartridge case (1) and isindicated in FIG. 2. The two parts (1 a and 1 d) could be joined in manydifferent ways and it is unnecessary to describe them here. Theindicated axis (8) may be regarded as the central axis of the carrier(1).

[0059] It may be mentioned here that without the tapers in the cartridgecase's width and thickness directions, the cartridge (1) will have flatends (as the front (1 c/1 f) and back (1 b/1 e) walls will be of equallength). Such a flat-ended cartridge may not readily gain entry betweenthe closely spaced warp/axial yarns and hence it may not serve as aproper yarn carrier. But it could anyhow be used as a stationary sourcefor supplying warp/axial yarns in processes like 3D-weaving and uniaxialnoobing and as a moving source for supplying braiding yarns in 2D and3D-braiding processes.

[0060] The purpose of the described constructional details of cartridgecase (1) will become clear from the description of the followingconstituting elements of cartridge (1).

[0061] In FIG. 3 are shown the constructional features of a wheel (10),a friction reducing bearing (11) and the assembly (12) of the wheel (10)and the bearing (11). As shown in FIG. 3a, the wheel (10) has a ring (10a) and a flange (10 b). The ring (10 a) and flange (10 b) occurconcentrically attached to each other. While the inside of ring (10 a)is for seating a bearing (11) indicated in FIG. 3b, the outside of ring(10 a) is for receiving a flanged belt to be described later.Accordingly, to prevent slippage of the flanged belt, the outside of thering (10 a) can have either a rough surface or a construction such asteeth, serration, spikes, grooves etc. The flange (10 b) has a series ofequally spaced perforation (10 c) located near the edge of the flange(10 b). Alternatively, instead of the perforations (10 c), there couldbe provided suitable serration on the flange (10 b). The bearing (11) isa suitable friction reducing bearing having an axial opening (11 a). Thebearing (11) is seated in the ring (10 a) of wheel (10) as shown in FIG.3c.

[0062] Each cartridge (1) will require a pair of wheels (12). Each ofthese wheels (12) is located between the ring-like circular openings (2a/2 d and 2 b/2 c) of the cases (1 a and 1 d) described earlier. Therings of these openings (2 a/2 d and 2 b/2 c) have a diameter suitablefor seating in the opening (11 a) of the bearing (11). This way thelocation of the pair of wheels (12) can be secured in position withinthe cartridge (1). Prior to mounting the pair of wheels (12) in the saidlocations, the flange (10 b) of one wheel (10) is placed in the openings(5 e/5 h and 6 d) and the flange (10 b) of the other wheel (10) isplaced in the opening (5 f/5 g and 6 c) of the case (1 d). The relativearrangement of the pair of wheel (12) and the bottom case (1 d) is shownin FIG. 3d.

[0063] A flanged belt (15) of special construction, as shown in FIG. 4a,is needed for carrying yarn about two parallel axes of rotation. Thespecial feature of the flanged belt (15) is that pins (15 b) of

-shape, as shown in the inset of FIG. 4a, are incorporated in the belt(15 a). These

-shaped pins (15 b) are arranged in a series fashion throughout the belt(15 a) and occur equally spaced apart. While the vertical section (15 c)of the pin (15 b) occurs in the lateral direction of the belt (15 a) andhelps to keep the pin (15 b) secured to the belt (15 a), the twohorizontal arms (15 d, 15 e) of the pin (15 b) protrude outwards in adirection perpendicular to the outer surface of the belt (15 a). Thehorizontal sections (15 d, 15 e) of the pin (15 b) are intended tofunction as a pair of flange on either side of the belt (15 a) toprevent lateral displacement and sloughing off of the yarn that will beeventually carried on the belt (15 a).

[0064] It suffices to mention here that a construction and functionsimilar to the described flanged belt (15) can be obtained usingsuitable links in a chain and is unnecessary to detail here. Further, aflanged belt could also be produced in one piece using suitablepolymeric materials. Also, it is not necessary for the cross-sectionalshape of the flanged belt (15) to be of the

-type as shown in FIG. 4a. It could be alternatively in the form of ‘V’,‘U’ etc. shapes. Also, the flange sections (15 d and 15 e) could be madeleaf-like and arranged partly over and under the adjacent leaves, suchas the shutter of a camera, to control the yarn fully, especially whenthe belt bends about the wheel (12). Further, the backside of the beltneed not necessarily be flat. It could have ribs or teeth orperforations or serrations or anti-slipping chemical coating etc. toprevent its slippage during running. Also, a suitable opening/slit canbe provided on belt (15 a) to enable hooking of the leading end of theyarn to enable its winding.

[0065] In FIG. 4b is shown the flanged belt (15) mounted on the pair ofwheels (12). In practice, the described flanged belt (15) will bemounted on the pair of wheel (12) that is seated in the case (1 d)explained earlier in reference to FIG. 3d. As can be inferred from FIG.4b, the yarn that will be carried on the flanged belt (15) will occurabout two parallel axes of rotation (X1 and X2). FIG. 5 shows the yarn(45) occurring about axes (X1 and X2).

[0066] Due to tension in the yarn that will be wound on it, the straightsections of the flanged belt (15) can deflect towards each other orbuckle inwards. As a consequence, the flanged belt (15) may not runproperly. To prevent this inward deflection of the flanged belt (15) andto maintain it in a straight path, the walls (4 a -4 d) are incorporatedin the top and bottom cases (1 a and 1 d) of carrier (1). These wallswill provide the necessary support against the belt's (15) deflectionwhen carrying yarn (45) as can be inferred from FIG. 5. If required, ablock can also be incorporated in the openings (3 a and 3 b) for extrareinforcement.

[0067] The assembly of the cartridge case (1), the pair of wheel (12),the belt (15) and yarn (45) may now be referred to as the yarn supplyingmeans or carrier (1 x).

[0068] As multiple yarn supply sources have to be traversedsimultaneously between either the rows or the columns of warp/axialyarns in the 3D textile-forming processes under consideration, itbecomes desirable to keep their back and forth traversal linear in thesame path. This is because the linear traversal of multiple yarncarriers allows to maintain the shortest possible distance between thelayers of the warp/axial yarns and to have a simple mechanism fordriving and managing the multiplicity of weft/binding yarn carriersunder positive control. Also, it is desirable that the carriers gaineasy and direct entry between the closely spaced warp/axial yarns andthat it also deflects the warp/axial yarns laterally to move withouthindrance. Such actions by the carriers are important to save space (andhence the over all sizes of the machine and the floor area requirementat the site of textile production) and to keep the traversal and relatedcontrol mechanisms relatively simple.

[0069] Although the linear traversal of the yarn carrier in the samepath is desirable for reasons just explained, it is also necessary atthe same time that the yarn is laid in two different paths during thecarrier's back and forth traversal. This is because in the 3D-weavingprocess the weft yarns have to be laid in the left/right sheds of thevertical direction and the upper/lower sheds of the horizontal directionduring the carrier's corresponding back and forth traversalrespectively. Similarly, in the case of the uniaxial noobing process,the yarn has to be laid at the left/right sides of the vertical layersand the top/bottom sides of the horizontal layers of the axial yarnsrespectively. If the weft/binding yarns are not laid in the twodifferent paths of the respective directions mentioned, then the yarnthat is laid by the carrier moving in one direction will be eitherpulled out or wrongly laid when the carrier moves in the oppositedirection. As a consequence, the production of 3D textile will fail oran undesirable structure will result. It is therefore necessary that theyarn carrier while travelling linearly in the same path is able to guideitself directly into the required upper/lower/left/right sheds ortop/bottom/left/right sides of the axial yarn layers. To achieve this,another pair of tapers, described next, is integrated to case (1). Sucha pair of tapers, acts as a guiding nose to readily direct case (1) intoeither of the two required paths of the respective directions(horizontal/vertical) concerned during the carrier's (1 x) linear backand forth traversal.

[0070] In FIG. 6a is shown the guiding nose (18) that can be attached tothe carrier (1 x). Such an attachment simplifies the manufacture of thecase (1). The purpose of this guiding nose (18) is to direct the carrier(1 x) in the same linear path during its back and forth traversal andyet make it capable of laying the yarn in two different paths. Theguiding nose (18) is essentially a bar that has tapered ends. However,the novel feature of this guiding nose (18) is that its tips (18 a and18 b) are offset or displaced oppositely about the central axis (18 c)as shown in the figure. The tips (18 a and 18 b) do not lie in the samestraight line as happens with the tips of a conventional shuttle. FIG.6b shows a three-dimensional view of the guiding nose (18). In FIG. 6cis shown the relative arrangement of the guiding nose (18) and thecarrier (1 x). The assembly of the carrier (1 x) and the guiding nose(18) may now be referred to as the self-guiding carrier (1 y). It may berestated here that the offset or displaced tips (18 a, 18 b) could alsobe directly built into the case (1) without resorting to the use of bar(18), as will become known later.

[0071] It will be noticed in FIG. 6c that the guiding nose (18) is fixedat the rear side of the carrier (1 x). By such a placing, the two tips(18 a and 18 b) do not occur along the central axis (8) of the case (1)indicated in FIG. 2. The two tips (18 a and 18 b) of the guiding nose(18) are thus offset in two senses about the axis (8) of the case (1),as the two axes (8 and 18 c) of the case (1) and the guiding nose (18)respectively are not coincident. The guiding nose (18) is located at therear side of case (1) to keep it close to the plane of shedding/axialyarn support so that the distance between the layers of warp/axial yarnscan be kept low. As a consequence, the tension in warp/axial yarns canbe kept low besides savings in space can be achieved.

[0072] The manner in which the offset tips (18 a, 18 b) direct thecarrier (1 x) to traverse in the same linear path and yet capable oflaying the yarn (45) in two different paths relative to a layer of themultiple layer warp/axial yarns in the 3D-weaving and noobing processesis sequentially shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 respectively. For exemplifyingthe point, only one horizontal layer has been shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.The same working applies to all other horizontal as well as the verticallayers. To understand the working of the traversal of the self-guidingcarrier (1 y) in the vertical direction, the same figures can bereferred to after turning them by 90°. In this case, the working willrefer to one vertical layer and will be similarly applicable to allother vertical layers. Accordingly, in FIG. 7 the back and forth lineartraversal of the self-guiding carrier (1 y) in the upper and lower shedsin the 3D-weaving process is illustrated, and FIG. 8 refers to its backand forth linear traversal over and under a layer of axial yarns in theuniaxial noobing process. The traversals indicated in FIGS. 7 and 8refer to one cycle of horizontal traversal. In practice horizontal andvertical traversal cycles will be carried out alternately. Thus onecycle of the process will include the carrier's (1 y) back and forthtraversals in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0073] In FIG. 7a is shown an open shed with the white warp ends at itslevel position and the grey warp ends raised up. The axis of the carrier(1 y) occurs in a straight line with the level position of the warp. Atthe start of the process cycle, the carrier with the attached guidingnose, and located at the right side of the warp, is about to enter intothe formed upper shed. In FIG. 7b is shown the carrier moving in itsforward direction. The tip of the guiding nose, which is above the levelposition of the warp, directs the carrier into the formed upper shed. Atthe same time, the carrier deflects the warp yarns laterally by a smalldistance that is no more than the distance that is just required for thecarrier to pass through unhindered. FIG. 7c shows the carrier traversingthrough the shed. In FIG. 7d is shown the carrier emerging from theshed. FIG. 7e shows the carrier on the left side of the levelled warpends and the laid-in weft interlacing with the warp yarns. Next, asshown in FIG. 7f, the lower shed is formed with the white warp endsremaining at its level position and grey warp ends displaced downwards.As shown, the carrier is about to enter into the formed lower shed inreference to its level position. In FIG. 7g is shown the carrier movingin its forward direction. The tip of the guiding nose, which is nowbelow the level position of the warp, directs the carrier into theformed lower shed. At the same time the carrier deflects the warp yarnslaterally by a small distance that is no more than the distance that isjust necessary for the carrier to pass through unhindered. FIG. 7h showsthe carrier traversing through the shed. In FIG. 7i is shown the carrieremerging from the shed. FIG. 7j shows the carrier on the right side ofthe levelled warp ends and the laid-in weft interlacing with the warpyarns.

[0074] It will now be observed that although the carrier (1 y) moves inthe same linear path back and forth, the special construction of itsguiding nose (18) directs the carrier (1 y) to guide itself in the upperand lower sheds. This way the weft yarn is laid in two different sidesof the warp layer's level position. Also, the shed opening does not haveto be more than what is just necessary because the carrier (1 y) itselfdeflects the warp yarns laterally by the minimum distance required.Also, as the carrier (1 y) passes through the shed, the warp yarnsimmediately revert to their assigned positions. They do not have to bemaintained highly separated until the carrier (1 y) has completelyemerged out of the shed. The weft, which has been shown to bediscontinuous, will in practice be a continuous length.

[0075] The above description fully applies to the traversal of thecarrier (1 y) in the vertical direction. The only difference will bethat the warp ends would be forming right side shed (FIG. 7a) and theleft side shed (FIG. 7f) in reference to its level position and thecarrier (1 y) traversing upwards and downwards respectively as can beunderstood by turning FIG. 7 by 90°.

[0076] In connection with the uniaxial noobing process, FIG. 8a showsthe axial yarns and the axis of the carrier (1 y) occurring in astraight line which is referred to as the level position. As there is noshedding operation involved in the uniaxial noobing process, the axialyarns remain at the level position all through. As shown in FIG. 8a, thecarrier (1 y) at the start of the process cycle is located at the rightside of a row of axial yarns and is about to move forward. In FIG. 8b isshown the carrier moving in its forward direction from right to leftside of the row of axial yarns. The tip of the guiding nose, which isabove the level position of the row of axial yarns, deflects the axialyarns downwards and thus guides the carrier above the row of axialyarns. The carrier deflects the axial yarns laterally by a distance thatis no more than the just required. FIG. 8c shows the carrier traversingabove the row of axial yarns. In FIG. 8d is shown the carrier emergingfrom over the row of axial yarns. FIG. 8e shows the carrier on the leftside of the row of axial yarns that remain at level position and thelaid binding yarn lying straight and over the row of axial yarns. Next,as shown in FIG. 8f, the carrier is moving in its forward direction fromleft to right side of the row of axial yarns. This time the tip of theguiding nose, which is below the level position of the row of axialyarns, deflects the axial yarns upwards in reference to the levelposition and thus directs the carrier below the row of axial yarns. Thecarrier deflects the axial yarns laterally by a distance that is no morethan what is just required. FIG. 8g shows the carrier traversing belowthe row of axial yarns. In FIG. 8h is shown the carrier emerging frombelow the row of axial yarns. FIG. 8i shows the carrier on the rightside of the row of axial yarns that remain at the level position and thelaid binding yarn lying straight and below the row of axial yarns.

[0077] It is the characteristic of the uniaxial noobing process that thebinding yarns occur straight between the corresponding adjacenthorizontal and vertical layers of the axial yarns. There is no sheddingoperation in this process and therefore there is no interlacing of theinvolved yarns. The indicated laid binding yarn will in practice occuras a continuous loop around the row of axial yarns.

[0078] It will now be observed that although the carrier (1 y) moveslinearly in the same path in its back and forth traversal every cycle,the special construction of its guiding nose (18) directs the carrier (1y) to guide itself above and below the row of axial yarns. This way thebinding yarn is laid in two different sides of the row of axial yarns.Also, the lateral deflection of the axial yarns is just that isnecessary because the carrier (1 y) itself displaces the axial yarnslaterally by the required distance. Also, as the carrier (1 y) passesover and below the row of axial yarns, these yarns immediately revert totheir assigned positions. They do not have to be kept deflected untilthe carrier (1 y) has fully traversed.

[0079] The above description of the carrier's (1 y) traversal inhorizontal direction fully applies to the traversal of the carriers (1y) in the vertical direction. The only difference will be that the axialyarns would be deflected to the left side (FIG. 8a) and the right side(FIG. 8f) in reference to its level position during the carrier's (1 y)upwards and downwards traversal respectively as can be understood byturning FIG. 8 by 90°.

[0080] It was indicated earlier in reference to FIG. 1 that thecartridge case parts (1 a and 1 d) are provided with openings (6 a-6 d)on its back walls (1 b and 1 e). It was also mentioned that the openings(6 c and 6 d) in the bottom case (1 d) were employable to accommodatewheel (10). The location of the wheel assembly (12) in the case part (1d) was shown in FIG. 3d. As can be seen in that figure, a part of theflange (10 b) of the wheel assembly (12) protrudes out from the wall (1e) through each of the openings (6 c and 6 d). The purpose of having theflange (10 b) protruding out of the cartridge case (1) is to be able toturn the wheel (12) by an external driver. Such a driving of either ofthe two wheels (12) is essential to wind yarn (45) into the cartridge(after the carrier (1 x) has exhausted the contained yarn) and totake-up the slackness in the yarn (45) (after the carrier (1 x) hastraversed from one side to the opposite). As the guiding nose (18) isfixed to the back walls (1 b and 1 e) of the case parts (1 a and 1 d)respectively, the guiding nose (18) is also provided with openings (18 dand 18 e) as indicated in FIG. 6. As can be inferred from FIG. 9a, anexternal driver (40) in the form of either a driving wheel or belt couldmake contact with the protruding part of the wheel flange (10 b) ofeither of the two assembled wheels (12) to turn it, and hence move theflanged belt (15), when required.

[0081] In certain situations it may be desirable and advantageous topositively let off highly tensioned yarn and take up slack yarn that isarranged on the flanged belt (15). To achieve this, a suitable electricmotor (20) can be installed in the opening (3 a and 3 b) of the caseparts (1 a and 1 d) as shown in FIG. 9b. A driving wheel (21) havingteeth that can mesh with the perforations (10 c) of the wheel (12) canbe attached to the motor (20). The motor (20) can be energised throughsuitable electrical contacts located on the cartridge case (1). Such anelectrical contact can be had either continuously during the traversalof the carrier (1 y) (e.g. through the guiding nose (18), as one end ofit can be had in contact with an electrical source) or intermittently(e.g. when the carrier (1 y) has docked into its housing after itstraversal).

[0082] It may be mentioned here that, unlike in the conventional 2Dweaving process where the shuttle is propelled negatively (i.e. bythrowing it), in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes theemployed multiple carriers (1 y) have to be traversed under positivecontrol. This is necessary to manage reliably the large number of thecarriers (1 y) that will be involved in the process and also to avoidany mishap that might arise under the influence of gravity, especiallywith the carriers (1 y) of the vertical set. The reliable traversal ofmultiple carriers in a given direction gains even more importance whentwo or more carriers are to be traversed in the same path, either in thesame direction or opposite, such as during the production ofcross-sectional profiles like H, E, B etc. in separate parts.Accordingly, the guiding nose (18) could be used for the positivetraversal of the yarn supply source (1 x). To achieve this, the rearside of the guiding nose (18) could have either teeth or perforations sothat it could function as a rack that could be engaged with a pinion ora suitable wheel for moving. There could also be provided a profiledgroove, such as ‘T’, for guiding it on matching tracks so that thecarrier (1 y) can move in a linear guided path and does not come offfrom the support during traversal. Alternatively, the guiding nose (18)could be of a material that can adhere magnetically to an electromagnetattached to, for example, a telescopic arm that can traverse the yarncarrier (1 y) from one side of the warp to the opposite. In yet anotherway, the guiding nose (18) could have a suitable profile, for example,it could be of H cross-section or even a box beam. The rib of the Hprofiled beam could be used for holding mechanically the carrier (1 y)during transportation. The mechanical gripping could be done evenpneumatically. Another possibility could be that of having either amechanical or an electromechanical arrangement within the guiding nose(18) that can be engaged with and disengaged from, for example, thecarrier driving arm. Alternatively, a motor can be installed to drivethe carrier (1 y).

[0083] Apparently, the use of such a guiding nose (18) could also besuitably extended to transport conventional yarn spools that have oneaxis of rotation, Y. For example, in FIG. 10a is shown a carrier (22 a)comprising case (24 a) containing such a spool (23). It could also beattached to a case (24 b) to have carrier (22 b) that holds more thanone such spool (23) as shown in FIG. 10b. The guiding nose (18) could bemade broader and modified so that it becomes a case (24 c) by itself tobe a carrier (22 c) to contain the spool/s (23) and its driving motorwithin itself as exemplified in FIG. 10c. In these examples the axis (Y)of the spool/s (23) will occur perpendicular to the longitudinal axis ofthe carrier. Alternatively, when using a pirn-like spool (23) in guidingnose case (24 d) of the carrier (22 d), as indicated in FIG. 10d, itsaxis Y will occur parallel to the longitudinal axis of the carrier (22d). As can be seen now, the concept of offset or displaced tips can beused to produce different types of carriers.

[0084] As in the 3D-weaving and uniaxial noobing processes the two setsof weft/binding yarn carriers are required to be moved alternately in amutually perpendicular direction, either each or some of these carriers(1 y) of the two sets could be equipped with a special form of dent forcarrying out the beating-up operation. Thus, the set of weft/bindingyarns that has been laid by the carriers (1 y) of one set could besubsequently beaten-up by the dent carrying carriers (1 y) of the otherset. This way the picking and beating-up operations could be combined inone step and thereby render the 3D textile forming processes efficient.

[0085] To achieve the said beating-up, a basic form of the dent (27) isindicated in FIG. 11a. The shown dent (27) is essentially formed from awire that may not necessarily have the circular cross-section. It hasthree characteristic sections: the fixing section (27 a), the guidingand weft/binding yarn displacing section (27 b), and the packing section(27 c). The fixing section (27 a) is intended for attaching the dent(27) to the carrier (1 y). The attachment could be done in a variety ofways, both fixed and movable, such as welding, screwing (when the endsare threaded), gripping (through suitable construction of the carrier (1y)), guided in a sleeve under spring pressure etc. In an alternativeconstruction the fixing section could also be made flexible, e.g. byhinging, so that the dent (27) can bend a little to align automaticallywith the angle of the disposed converging warp/axial yarns through whichit is required to pass. The second section (27 b) are two in number andoccurs at an angle relative to the packing section (27 c) of the dent(27). It is intended to guide the whole dent (27) through theshed/adjacent layers of warp/axial yarns progressively without hindranceand also at the same time progressively displace the weft/binding yarnsof the other set, that have been laid previously, towards the plane offabric-fell. The two units of the second section (27 b), which aresimilar, will not be functioning simultaneously but one at a timedepending on the traversal direction of the carrier (1 y). The unit (27b) that is on the leading side of the carrier (1 y) will be the workingunit. The packing section (27 c) is intended to align or firm up thepreviously laid weft/binding yarns at the plane of fabric-fell with orwithout the spring action of the wire. Although this section (27 c) hasbeen indicated to be flat, it could be also had in forms like ‘V’ and‘U’. In an alternative construction, the second and third sections (27 band 27 c) of dent (27) could be combined so that the new dent would beone curved section.

[0086] In FIG. 11b is shown the location of dent (27) relative to thecarrier (1 x). The assembly of the beating-up dent (27) and the carrier(1 x) may now be referred to as the beating-up carrier (1 z).

[0087] Depending on the requirements of the textile-forming process, thedent (27) could be modified to be relatively stiffer and more stable asexemplified by dent (28) in FIG. 11c. Further, it could be either bentat its fixing section so as to correspond with the angle of thewarp/axial yarn layer when disposed in a converging configuration or itcould be suitably hinged so that it could align automatically with thedisposed angle of the converging warp/axial yarns. A construction of themodified dent (28) is exemplified in FIG. 11c. As can be seen, themodified dent (28) differs from the previous dent (27) essentially inthat it is made from blanked sheet material instead of a wire and withsuitable reinforcing members (28 f) to impart stiffness and stability.The exemplified dent (28) too has the three characteristic sections: (28a) for attaching it to the carrier (1 x), (28 b) for guiding it throughthe warp/axial yarn layer and deflecting the weft/binding yarns, and (28c) for packing the weft/binding yarns at the plane of fabric-fell. Anopening (28 e) provides space for the yarn that emerges through theopening (7) of the carrier (1 x). In yet another alternative form, usinga combination of wire and sheet material could also produce the dent. Insuch a construction the fixing section and the guiding and weft/bindingyarn-displacing section could be made from sheet material and thepacking section from a wire. To reduce friction between the dent (27/28)and the warp/axial yarns through which it will pass, the dent can becoated with a suitable material like PTFE.

[0088] An assembly of the yarn carrier (1 x) carrying yarn (45), guidingnose (18) and the dent (27) is illustrated in FIG. 12 to indicate theirrelative locations. Such an assembly may now be referred to as the yarnsupplying cum beating-up means (90).

[0089] The method of simultaneously carrying out the picking andbeating-up operations employing the means (90) is shown schematically inFIGS. 13 and 14.

[0090] In FIG. 13a is shown the relative arrangement of the warp/axialyarns (25) and its support plate (25 a), the vertical set of carriers(90 v) located at the top side of the warp/axial yarns (25), thehorizontal set of carriers (90 h) located at the left side of thewarp/axial yarns (25), the vertical set of weft/binding yarns (45 v) andthe horizontal set of weft/binding yarns (45 h). It may be assumed thatthe vertical set of weft/binding yarns (45 v) have just been laidthrough the warp/axial yarns (25) and the horizontal set of weft/bindingyarns (45 h) are now to be laid in a given process cycle. Accordingly,the horizontal set of carriers (90 h) will be required to move from theleft to the right side of the warp/axial yarns (25).

[0091] In FIGS. 13b-13 f are shown simplified sequential views from thetop of warp to indicate clearly the method of simultaneous picking andbeating-up operations relating to the horizontal carriers (90 h). FIG.13b shows the carriers (90 h) about to enter the warp/axial yarns (25).FIG. 13c shows dents (27) entering into the warp/axial yarns (25) andthe previously laid set of vertical weft/binding yarns (45 v) beingpushed toward the plane of fabric-fell (29) by dents (27) as thecarriers (90 h) traverses in its forward direction. FIG. 13d shows dents(27) commencing the beating-up of the set of vertical weft/binding yarns(45 v) at the plane of fabric-fell (29). FIG. 13e shows the carriers (90h) beginning to emerge from the warp/axial yarns (25) and the dents (27)completing the beating-up of yarns (45 v) at the plane of fabric-fell(29). FIG. 13f shows the fully emerged carriers (90 h) and the yarns (45v) aligned at the plane of fabric-fell (29). During the same time whenthe carriers (90 h) are traversing through the warp/axial yarns (25),horizontal weft/binding yarns (45 h) are also being laid.

[0092] As just described in the foregoing, FIG. 14a shows the relativearrangement of the warp/axial yarns (25) and its support plate (25 a),the vertical set of carriers (90 v) located at the top side of thewarp/axial yarns (25), the horizontal set of carriers (90 h) located atthe right side of the warp/axial yarns (25), the vertical set ofweft/binding yarns (45 v), the horizontal set of weft/binding yarns (45h). As the horizontal set of weft/binding yarns (45 h) has just beenlaid through the warp/axial yarns (25), the vertical set of weft/bindingyarns (45 v) are now to be laid. Accordingly, the vertical set ofcarriers (90 v) is moved from the topside to the bottom side of thewarp/axial yarns (25).

[0093] Similar to the earlier described working, in FIGS. 14b-14 f areshown simplified sequential views from the side of warp to indicateclearly the method of simultaneous picking and beating-up operationsrelating to the vertical carriers (90 v). FIG. 14b shows the carriers(90 v) about to enter the warp/axial yarns (25). FIG. 14c shows dents(27) entering into the warp/axial yarns (25) and the previously laid setof horizontal weft/binding yarns (45 h) being pushed toward the plane offabric-fell (29) by dents (27) as the carriers (90 v) traversedownwards. FIG. 14d shows dents (27) commencing the beating-up of theset of vertical weft/binding yarns (45 h) at the plane of fabric-fell(29). FIG. 14e shows the carriers (90 v) beginning to emerge from thewarp/axial yarns (25) and the dents (27) completing the beating-up ofyarns (45 h) at the plane of fabric-fell (29). FIG. 14f shows the fullyemerged carriers (90 v) and the set of yarns (45 h) aligned at the planeof fabric-fell (29). During the same time when the carriers (90 v) aretraversing through the warp/axial yarns (25), vertical weft/bindingyarns (45 v) are also being laid.

[0094] As can be observed, in such 3D textile forming processes thepicking and beating-up operations can be carried out simultaneously.Thus, as the set of horizontal carriers (90 h) move from one side to theopposite, they beat-up the previously laid set of vertical weft/bindingyarns (45 v) at the plane of fabric-fell (29) and simultaneously lay thehorizontal set of weft/binding yarns (45 h) through the warp/axial yarns(25). Similarly, as the set of vertical carriers (90 v) move from oneside to the opposite, they beat-up the previously laid set of horizontalweft/binding yarns (45 h) at the plane of fabric-fell (29) andsimultaneously lay the vertical set of weft/binding yarns (45 v) throughthe warp/axial yarns (25).

[0095] It will be noticed through the FIGS. 13 and 14 that in thismethod of beating-up of the weft/binding yarns (45 h/45 v), the dents(27) (or the carriers (90 h/90 v)) do not reciprocate in the axialdirection (30) of warp, as happens in the conventional 2D-weavingprocess. Such a method of beating-up may now be referred to as thenon-reciprocatory type of beating-up operation.

[0096] Nonetheless, if required, it is possible to carry out theconventional reciprocatory beating-up method too. To achieve this, thecarriers (90) could be halted midway, if required, when traversingthrough the warp/axial yarns (25) and subjected to a forward andbackward motion in the direction of the axis (30) by reciprocating theplate (25 a) that supports the warp/axial yarns through a suitableworking arrangement. This is possible because the carriers (90) aredriven under positive control and can be halted at any predeterminedpoint. Alternatively, the dent (27/28) could be placed in the carrierunder spring pressure and partly emerging from the rear side of thecarrier (1 x) so that it gets reciprocated when passing over specifiedraised points on the plate (25 a).

[0097] As it is possible to employ multiple rapiers in place of carriers(1 y) in the vertical and horizontal directions of the 3D-weaving anduniaxial noobing processes, the dent (27/28) could be similarly attachedto the head/band (36/37) of the rapier system (39) as shown in FIG. 15.The non-reciprocatory beating-up action would remain as before. It maybe mentioned here that the indicated rapier head (36) in FIG. 15 couldbe a means for inserting weft/binding yarn by way of transferring theyarn in the form of either a loop or tip between the warp/axial yarns.Accordingly, a knitting needle could also be employed as a rapier thatcan insert yarn in the form of a loop. Also, the rapier head's (36)supporting band (37) could be of either the flexible or rigid type.

[0098] Similarly and as can be imagined now, simultaneous beating-up andlaying of yarn (45) between the warp/axial yarns (25) could also beachieved by attaching the dent (27/28) to the different types ofcarriers (22 a-22 d), which can carry one or more yarn spools (23) ofthe type having one axis of rotation Y, described earlier in referenceto FIG. 10. In FIG. 15b is exemplified the dent (28) attached to carrier(22 b) indicated earlier to form the carrier (22) for accomplishingsimultaneous laying of yarn and beating-up on the lines described in theforegoing.

[0099] It would be also apparent that the described non-reciprocatorybeating-up method could be applied even if there was no yarn in themeans (90). This approach of beating-up can be useful in those instancesof 3D textile production where certain weft/binding yarns of eitherhorizontal or vertical set are not required to be laid but beating-up ofthe weft/binding yarns of the other set that have been laid should becarried out. For example, in the production of tubular and ‘H’, ‘T’ etc.profiled 3D textiles.

[0100] It may be mentioned here that the indicated dents (27/28) in FIG.11 could be modified such that the yarn (45) emerging from the port (7)of the carrier (1 x) could be guided either to or closer to its packingsection (27 c/28 c). For example, as shown in FIG. 11c, a yarn guidecould be installed in the opening (28 d) located on the packing section(28 c). This way it would become possible to lay the weft/binding yarnscloser to the plane of fabric-fell. An alternative way to bring the yarncloser to the packing section (27 c/28 c) would be to have, for example,a tube with suitably located entry and exit ports for conducting theyarn through it instead of employing a dent wire (27). When using dent(28), either a closed or open channel could be built into it to conductthe yarn (45) to the packing section (28 c) from the opening (7) of thecarrier (1 x). Alternatively, the yarn (45) could also be guided to thepacking section (27 c/28 c) of the dents (27/28) by guiding it throughsuitably located yarn-guides.

[0101] As mentioned earlier, the described yarn supplying means (1 x)should not be considered as a weft/binding yarn carrier for 3D-weavingand uniaxial noobing processes only. Such a cartridge (1 x) could alsofind use in textile processes where space requirements may imposerestrictions on using large cylindrical packages. For example, a carrier(1 x) of the described characteristics could be used in braiding processwith suitable modifications and in place of bulky creels that feed yarnsto certain 2D and 3D textile-forming processes. In the braiding processthe modified carrier (1 x) could be traversed in an upright or standingmanner such that its axis (8) occurs perpendicular to its traversaldirection. The added advantage of using such a yarn carrier (1 x) willbe the possibility to control the tension of the yarn supplied bysuitably energising the installed electric motor (20). Of course in suchapplications there will be no need to attach the guiding nose (18) tothe means (1 x).

[0102] The term yarn used above, and which could be handled by thevarious indicated yarn carriers, should be interpreted broadly, and maye.g. comprise tapes, without deviating from the invention as claimed.The tapes so used could be composed of, for example, fibrous material,metallic foils, polymeric material etc.

[0103] Further, if necessary, the basic construction of the yarn carrier(1 x) could be modified to suit a particular application by way ofhaving the yarn about more than two parallel axes of rotation. One suchconstruction is exemplified in FIG. 16 wherein the yarn supplying means(50) is shown to have three parallel axes of rotation (X1, X2 and X3).The working principle of such a means (50) will be the same as that ofthe carrier (1 x) and needs no further elaboration. Such a yarnsupplying means (50) could perhaps find application as a, for example,weft measuring, storing and feeding device for use with the shuttlelessweaving machines. To suit this particular application whereintransportation of the means (50) is not involved and there is availablerelatively more space, some of the suggested modifications in respect ofmeans (1 x) could be as follows:

[0104] One of the wheels (52) contained in the case (51) could bedirectly driven by an electric motor.

[0105] The belt (53) could be perforated so that the required yarnlength could be held onto it by vacuum pressure from below.

[0106] The vacuum pressure could be created by connecting the exhaustport (54) on case (51) to a suction pump through suitable connection.

[0107] Two ports, one entry (55) and one exit (56), could be providedfor the yarn to enter into and exit from the yarn supplying means (50).

[0108] It may be mentioned here that in the described means (1 x) theyarn (45) wound on the flanged belt (15) would not be drawn off axially(i.e. in the direction of the axes X1 and X2), but in the tangentialsense (i.e. in the plane perpendicular to the axes X1 and X2). As aresult, no twist will be imparted to the yarn during its withdrawal.Also, because the yarn will be enclosed in the cases (1 a/1 d), the riskof contaminating and damaging it is virtually eliminated. These pointswill also be applicable to the yarn supplying means (50).

[0109] For satisfactory practical utilisation of the carrier (1 x), someimprovements could be carried out. For example, a window could beprovided at a suitable location on the case part (1 a or 1 d) to knowthe yarn material type and amount contained on the flanged belt (15) atany given time. This window could also be helpful in accessing theleading tip of the yarn, which enters through the yarn guide, forengaging the yarn to the flanged belt (15) so that it could be latchedfor winding. Through this window it is also possible to monitorelectronically the amount of yarn remaining on the belt (15). Anotherimprovement could be to install pins at suitable points inside thecarrier (1 x) to guide the yarn through the desired path. Yet anotherimprovement could be to include an electronic system within the carrier(1 x) to indicate whether it is full/empty, running/stopped etc. forvisual attention. Further, pressure-sensitive pins could be consideredfor incorporation so that the motor (20) can be activated according tothe obtaining needs of the yarn tension. For easy and quick assembly anddismantling of the carrier (1 x), spring clips could be used inconjunction with suitable slits on case (1). There could be providedopenings on the front walls (1 c and 1 f) of the carrier (1 x), similarto the openings (6 a-6 d) indicated in FIG. 1, to drive the wheel (12)from the front side of the carrier to suit a particular situation. Forthe same purpose, openings could also be had at the end sides of theyarn cartridge that is of the flat-end type mentioned earlier. Anopening for receiving the yarn guide could also be provided at one ofthe end sides of the flat-end type yarn cartridge. There could also beincluded rolling pins instead of a yarn guide at the opening (7) foraccording safety to the passing yarn.

[0110] From the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of theinvention it will be clear that all of the objectives set earlier arerealizable.

[0111] It will now be apparent to those skilled in the art that it ispossible to alter or modify the various details of this inventionwithout departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0112] Therefore, the foregoing description is for the purpose ofillustrating the basic idea of this invention and it does not limit theclaims that are listed below.

[0113] References:

[0114] Khokar, N., 1996. 3D Fabric-forming Processes: DistinguishingBetween 2D-Weaving, 3D-Weaving and an Unspecified Non-interlacingProcess. J. Text. Inst., 87, Part 1, No. 1.

[0115] Khokar, N. 1997. Doctoral dissertation: 3D-Weaving and Noobing:Characterization of Interlaced and Non-interlaced 3D Fabric FormingPrinciples, Dept. of Polymeric Materials, Chalmers University ofTechnology, Gothenburg, Sweden, ISBN 91 7197-492X.

[0116] Khokar, N. and Peterson, E., 1998. 3D Fabrics Through the ‘True’3D-Weaving Process, Paper presented at the World Textile Congress 1998,Huddersfield, U.K.

[0117] Khokar, N. and Peterson, E., 1999. An Experimental UniaxialNoobing Device: Construction, Method of Operation, and Related Aspects.J. Text. Inst., 90, Part 1, No. 2.

[0118] Khokar, N., 1999. An Experimental ‘True’ 3D-Weaving Device, Paperpresented at 3rd Intl. Conference on New Products and ProductionTechnologies for a New Textile Industry, University of Ghent, Belgium.

[0119] Khokar, N., 1999. A Classification of Shedding Methods. J. Text.Inst., 90, Part 1, No. 4.

1. A method for manufacturing a textile, wherein at least one yarninsertion means (90; 39; 22) is operated for laying the yarns (45)through the warp/axial yarns (25), characterized in that said yarninsertion means (90; 39; 22) is also employable to perform a beating-upoperation.
 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the beating-upoperation and the laying of yarn is performed essentiallysimultaneously.
 3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the yarninsertion means (90; 39; 22) is traversed in at least one of thedirections of the textile thickness and the textile width.
 4. A methodaccording to claim 3, wherein the yarn is laid in both thetextile-thickness direction and the textile width direction, and theyarns (45 v) that have been laid in the direction of the textilethickness are beaten-up by operating at least one yarn insertion means(90 h; 39; 22) in the textile width direction and the yarns (45 h) thathave been laid in the direction of textile's width are beaten-up byoperating yarn insertion means (90 v; 39; 22) in the textile thicknessdirection.
 5. A method according to any one of the claims above, whereinmore than one yarn insertion means (90; 39; 22) are used, each yarninsertion means (90; 39; 22) being operated in one of at least twodirections.
 6. A method according to claim 5, wherein the yarn insertionmeans (90; 39; 22). for at least one direction are operated in groups ofat least two.
 7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims,wherein the yarn insertion means being used is a yarn carrier (90; 22).8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein theyarn insertion means being used is a rapier system (39).
 9. A yarncarrier (90) for use in manufacturing a textile, characterized in thatthe carrier (90) comprises a yarn carrying belt (15) on which yarn (45)is arranged, said belt (15) being turnable relative to the carrier (90)about at least two axes of rotation (X1 and X2).
 10. A yarn carrieraccording to claim 9, wherein the two axes (X1 and X2) being fixedrelative to each other.
 11. A yarn carrier according to claims 9 and 10,wherein the two axes (X1 and X2) being essentially parallel to eachother.
 12. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims 9-11,wherein it further comprises at least two wheels (12) being arranged torotate individually about said respective axes of rotation (X1 and X2)and the yarn carrying belt (15) being mounted on the said wheels (12).13. A yarn carrier according to claim 12, wherein at least a part of thewheel (12) is provided with a high-friction arrangement, such asperforation, serration, groove, gear teeth or application of a suitablematerial, for driving the belt (15) through a non-slipping arrangement.14. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims 9-13, wherein theyarn carrying belt (15) is flanged to prevent lateral displacement ofthe yarn (45) carried by it.
 15. A yarn carrier according to any one ofthe claims 9-14, wherein the belt (15 a) comprises means for grippingthe leading end of the yarn (45), and preferably a slit or hookingarrangement.
 16. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims 9-15,wherein the belt (15 a) is provided with a high-friction arrangement,such as being ribbed, perforated, or coated with anti-slip material, onat least one of the sides, and preferably both.
 17. A yarn carrieraccording to any one of the claims 9-16, wherein it further comprises acase (1) covering at least part of the yarn (45) being arranged on thebelt (15), and preferably essentially enclosing the yarn.
 18. A yarncarrier according to claim 17, wherein the case comprises at least oneopening (7) constituting a passageway for the yarn (45) to pass in orout from the case (1).
 19. A yarn carrier according to claim 18, asdependent on claim 14, wherein the flanged belt (15) is open on one sidein its cross-sectional shape, such that the open side of the mountedflanged belt (15) faces in the direction of the opening (7) in at leastone of its running positions.
 20. A yarn carrier according to any one ofthe claims 17-19, wherein the case (1), together with the belt (15)constitutes a cartridge-like unit, said unit being mutuallyexchangeable.
 21. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims17-20, as dependent on claim 12, wherein the wheels (12), belt (15) andyarn (45) are enclosed in the case (1).
 22. A yarn carrier according toclaim 21, wherein the case has openings (6 a-6 d) to partly expose thewheels (12) for turning it from outside of the case (1) for eitherdrawing in or letting out the yarn (45) from the case (1).
 23. A yarncarrier according to any one of the claims 17-22, wherein the case (1)has one of its longitudinal sides (1 b, 1 e) longer than the other (1 c,1 f) to form a taper in the direction of the carrier's width.
 24. A yarncarrier according to any one of the claims 17-23, wherein the case (1)is tapered (9 a-9 d) in the thickness direction of the case (1).
 25. Ayarn carrier according to any one of the claims 9-24, wherein it furthercomprises a driving unit, such as motor (20), for driving the flangedbelt (15).
 26. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims 9-25,intended to be used for traversing back and forth through layers ofwarp/axial yarns (25) to place the yarn (45) there between.
 27. A yarncarrier according to claim 26, wherein it is elongated in the directionof its traversal, and both end portions of the carrier in the saiddirection of traversal being tapered and ended in tips (18 a-18 b)occurring oppositely displaced to each other relative to the traversalpath of the carrier (90) to render the carrier (90) self-guiding to laythe yarn (45) in two different paths relative to a layer of thewarp/axial yarns (25) while the carrier (90) traverses back and forth.28. A yarn carrier according to claim 27 or 28, wherein it furthercomprises beating-up dent (27; 28) extending in the direction towardsthe fabric-fell (29) when the insertion means is traversed andcomprising at least one inclined portion (27 b; 28 b) adjacent to thefarthest extended part (27 c; 28 c).
 29. A yarn carrier according to anyone of the claims 9-25, wherein it is intended to be used as astationary source of yarn supply.
 30. A yarn carrier (90; 22) for use intextile production, wherein it is traversed back and forth throughlayers of warp/axial yarns (25) to place yarn (45) there between, saidcarrier (90; 22) comprising turnable yarn holder (15; 23) on which theyarn (45) is arranged in a way to enable either the yarn's (45) removalfrom the case (1) or the yarn's (45) winding into the case (1), throughopening (7), wherein the carrier (90; 22) is elongated in the directionof its traversal, and both end portions of the carrier in the saiddirection of traversal being tapered, characterized in that the taperedend portions are ended in tips (18 a, 18 b) occurring oppositelydisplaced to each other relative to the traversal path of the carrier(90; 22) to render the carrier (90; 22) self-guiding to lay the yarn(45) in two different paths relative to a layer of the warp/axial yarns(25) while the carrier (90; 22) traverses back and forth.
 31. A yarncarrier according to claim 30, wherein it is provided with means to beoperated under positive control, such as having teeth, perforation,projection, profiled grooves or being of magnetic material.
 32. A yarncarrier according to claim 31, wherein the carrier comprises a drivingunit, making it a self-driven carrier.
 33. A yarn carrier according toany one of the claims 30-32, wherein the yarn holder comprises either ayarn carrying belt (15) or a spool (23) on which the yarn (45) isarranged, said belt being turnable relative to the carrier (90; 22), andpreferably about at least two axes of rotation (X1 and X2).
 34. A yarncarrier according to any one of the claims 30-33, wherein it furthercomprises a case (1) covering at least part of the yarn (45) beingarranged on the belt (15)/spool (23), and preferably essentiallyenclosing the yarn (45).
 35. A yarn carrier according to claim 34,wherein the case (1) comprises an opening (7) constituting a passagewayfor the yarn (45) to pass in or out from the case (1).
 36. A yarncarrier according to claim 35, as dependent on claim 29, wherein thebelt (15) is flanged and open on one side in its cross-sectional shape,such that the open side of the mounted flanged belt (15) faces in thedirection of the opening (7) in at least one of its running positions.37. A yarn carrier according to any one of the claims 34-36, wherein thecase (1), together with the belt (15) constitutes a cartridge-like unit,said unit being mutually exchangeable.
 38. A yarn carrier according toany one of the claims 34-37, wherein the case (1) has one of itslongitudinal sides (1 b/1 e) longer than the other (1 c/1 f) to form ataper in the direction of the carrier's width to facilitate thecarrier's (90) entry into the warp/axial yarns (25).
 39. A yarn carrieraccording to any one of the claims 30-38, wherein it further comprisesbeating-up dent (27; 28) extending in the direction towards thefabric-fell (29) when the insertion means is traversed and it comprisesat least one inclined portion (27 b; 28 b) adjacent to the farthestextended portion (27 c; 28 c).
 40. A yarn insertion means (90; 39; 22),such as a yarn carrier or rapier, for use in textile production, whereinit is traversed back and forth through layers of warp/axial yarns (25)to place the yarn (45) there between, characterized in that it furthercomprises beating-up dent (27; 28) extending in the direction towardsthe fabric-fell (29) when the insertion means is traversed and the dentcomprising at least one inclined portion (27 b; 28 b) adjacent to thefarthest extended portion (27 c; 28 c).
 41. A yarn insertion meansaccording to claim 40, wherein it further comprises a turnable yarnholder belt (15)/spool (23) on which the yarn (45) is arranged.
 42. Ayarn insertion means according to claim 41, wherein it further comprisesa case (1; 24) covering at least part of the yarn being arranged on theyarn holder (15/23) and preferably essentially enclosing the yarn (45).43. A yarn insertion means according to claim 41 or 42, wherein the yarnholder comprises a yarn carrying belt (15) on which the yarn (45) isarranged, said belt (15) being turnable relative to the carrier (90)about at least two axes of rotation (X1 and X2).
 44. A yarn insertionmeans according to any one of the claims 40-43, wherein the beating-updent (27; 28) comprises a farthest extended part (27 c; 28 c) with anedge being essentially parallel to the traversal direction of thecarrier (90; 22).
 45. A yarn insertion means according to any one of theclaims 40-44, wherein the beating-up dent (27; 28) comprises an inclinedportion (27 b; 28 b) adjacent to the farthest extended part (27 c; 28 c)on both side thereof in the traversal direction.
 46. A yarn insertionmeans according to any one of the claims 40-45, wherein the beating-updent (27; 28) is at least partly constructed from an elongated member,such as a wire, flat strip, tube, and being fastened to other parts ofthe carrier in its ends.
 47. A yarn insertion means according to any oneof the claims 40-45, wherein beating-up dent (27; 28) is at least partlyconstructed from a plate member, such as a blanked sheet material.
 48. Ayarn insertion means according to any one of claims 40-47, wherein thebeating-up means (27; 28) further comprising yarn guiding means forguiding the yarn (45), emanating from the yarn inserting means, to beplaced at the fabric-fell (29).
 49. A yarn insertion means according toclaim 48, wherein the yarn guiding means (28 d) is positioned in thevicinity of the farthest extended part (27 c; 28 c) of the beating-updent.
 50. A yarn insertion means according to any one of the claims40-49, wherein the beating-up dents (27; 28) are arranged flexiblerelative to the rest of the carrier.
 51. A yarn insertion meansaccording to any one of the claims 40-50, wherein it is a carrier beingelongated in the direction of its traversal, and both end portions ofthe carrier in the said direction of traversal being tapered and endedin tips (18 a-18 b) occurring oppositely displaced to each otherrelative to the traversal path of the carrier to render the carrier (90;22) self-guiding to lay the yarn (45) in two different paths relative toa layer of the warp/axial yarns (25) while the carrier (90; 22)traverses back and forth.